The recent shifts in the New York hip hop radio scene are creating quite a buzz, particularly with the cancellation of "Ebro in the Morning" on MediaCo's Hot 97 (WQHT). Additionally, the departures of prominent personalities Miss Jones and Ed Lover from Audacy’s 94.7 The Block (WXBK) have sparked discussions about local radio in a way we haven't seen in years.
Initially, when we reported these developments last Friday, it seemed plausible to suggest that the two events were interconnected, perhaps indicating that one show might migrate to the other station. However, we've since learned that this correlation was merely coincidental.
On the heels of these changes, rumors began circulating on Sunday evening, claiming that Funkmaster Flex would be transitioning to the morning slot at WQHT. Flex himself addressed these speculations via social media, clarifying that he was only scheduled to guest host for one day.
"Ebro in the Morning" had dwindled to just a handful of syndication affiliates. Stations like Connoisseur Media’s We 102.9 in Portland, Oregon, Kemp Broadcasting’s 106.9 The Bomb in Las Vegas, Major Keystone’s Loud Radio network serving parts of Pennsylvania, and Equinox Broadcasting’s Hot 92.9 in Binghamton, New York, are currently airing best-of segments while awaiting further instructions regarding the show's future. Superadio Networks is set to introduce new programming that will eventually include the show.
Interestingly, the new direction for the programming seems to be leaning towards YouTube distribution. Ebro, along with co-hosts Peter Rosenberg and Laura Stylez, is actively promoting a new channel as "The NEW and OFFICIAL Home for The Ebro Laura Rosenberg Show!" This raises questions about whether former Alpha Media EVP/Content Phil Becker is involved in some capacity.
Looking ahead, both WQHT and WXBK are preparing to unveil fresh morning shows in 2026. Insiders have hinted that Hot 97 has already rolled out a Saturday morning program titled "Tri-State of Mind," which features comedians Ken Starz and Ray Ray alongside Linda Aybar. Observers have noted striking resemblances between this show and Power 106’s "Brown Bag Mornings" in Los Angeles, which successfully transitioned from a video podcast format to morning radio.
The struggling WXBK, which switched from a Country format in October 2021, has not made significant strides in audience engagement. Its weak signal, broadcasting from New Jersey, has contributed to its low ratings, hovering around the 1% and low 2% share marks. In contrast, WQHT and iHeartMedia’s Power 105.1 (WWPR-FM) have been experiencing growth, with WQHT recently achieving a 4.3 share—its best showing since 2005—while WWPR-FM registered a 3.1 share.
The exits of Jones and Lover were characterized as budgetary decisions due to their low performance ratings. As of now, there are no indications that either station will undergo a format change.
